Annual Shape Note convention returning to local church
Posted 11/7/19
The haunting sounds of centuries-old shape note singing will again be heard in southern Warren County on Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8. Singers from near and far will gather at St. John’s …
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Annual Shape Note convention returning to local church
Posted
The haunting sounds of centuries-old shape note singing will again be heard in southern Warren County on Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8.Singers from near and far will gather at St. John’s United Church of Christ on Highway 94 in Pinckney Township for the 30th Annual Missouri State Sacred Harp Singing Convention.Singers of this Early American form of singing love to come to this 1870s church building because of its wonderful acoustic qualities and because it is reminiscent of the churches of Colonial New England where this style of music originated and of the rural Southern churches where it was lovingly preserved.Everyone who attends a Shape Note singing is welcome to sing — although listeners are also always very welcome. Whether singing or listening, attendees will have the opportunity to experience “full voiced” a cappella singing consisting of dispersed harmony and haunting lyrics.Shape note singing originated as a way to help church members in Colonial America with no music training to enthusiastically sing in parts — and without the benefit of organ, piano, or other music instruments. Singers now come from a wide variety of belief backgrounds — including some with no formal religious ties. The appeal of this music transcends denominations and all singers feel enriched by it.Shape Note singers travel across the country — and beyond — to attend conventions in various areas. In recent years, singers from Canada and the United Kingdom have come to Missouri State Sacred Harp Conventions. In addition to singers from the Midwest states, singers are expected at this year’s Missouri Convention from as far away as Georgia, Alabama, Texas, Minnesota and Utah to sing music from “The Sacred Harp,” first published in 1844, and from “The Missouri Harmony,” first published in 1820.Copies of both books will be available for use at the convention or for purchase. Recordings of previous Sacred Harp Singing Conventions also will be available for purchase.Singing will be from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, with the customary potluck-style “Dinner on the Grounds” at noon. In the South, these meals are often shared outside. At St. John’s, the meals will be spread inside the church’s fellowship building. Local singers and listeners bring various food dishes for all to share.When reflecting on conventions in which they have participated, Sacred Harp singers remember the music, the friendships — and the shared meal.There is no admission charge to attend but a free-will offering will be received during the course of the convention. Contributions of food dishes for the “dinner on the grounds” are also gratefully accepted.St. John’s United Church of Christ is located approximately 12 miles west of Marthasville on Highway 94.For more information, contact the Rev. Jeanne Lischer at 636-932-4646. For more information about the 30th Annual Missouri State Sacred Harp Singing Convention see the convention flier at http://stlfasola.org/2015ConventionFlyer.pdf, email stlfasola@stlfasola.org or call Paul Figura at 314-962-4870.
Photo courtesy of the St. Louis Shape Note Singers! Facebook page.
